Why I STILL Go to LAC

Stephen H. Anderson, MD, FACEP

As a member of the Exploring Retirement Section, I was recently asked why I STILL go to the Leadership & Advocacy Conference (LAC) in DC annually. Great question, and an answer that starts over 30 years ago. The environment in Washington DC appears now stagnant, to be very divided along political parties, but this wasn’t always the case. There was a time when universal problems were approached across the aisle. Compromise and open discussion led to action. I felt like our nation’s health was a universal problem and believed that a voice on the front lines was needed. I found over the years that both parties listened to my stories if I offered solutions and not just whined. Today, the problems haven’t lessened, and front-line insights are still needed. My enthusiasm has returned with the creation of physician caucuses now in both parties, with their ability to work together for physician led solutions. 

In the past, I met with legislators and their VERY youthful aides and learned “Hill-speak.” ACEP trained me how to make 30 minutes count. Those interactions surrounded ACEP issues but today translate to advocacy I do on behalf of other organizations I belong to. Best of all, those relationships cultivated in one realm, now provide credibility and trust when I return on other matters. There is no question that facial recognition when I enter an office quickly adds validity to my mission. As chair of the Board of The Naloxone Project now, my network and skillset have helped engage federal legislation for those goals.  I’ve learned that “money opens the door,” but a relationship is worth its weight in gold.

Finally, the conference itself offers networking, mentoring opportunities, and just connecting again with friends. I’ve always said LAC was my favorite meeting due to its size. I used to call it the “Let me introduce you to the President meeting,” because early on, it was a size that lent itself to introductions. Now I STILL get to be introduced, more often now to the next wave of leaders. Clearly this helps me, as our Section dictum goes, REMAIN RELAVENT. Yet the greatest thrill I get from LAC is the chance to see old and new friends without the frenzy of the Scientific Assembly. ACEP friendships are often widely spaced across a nation. Happily, those friendships are for life if you continue to cultivate them. LAC has been, and will continue to be, my favorite place to do that.